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Most interior design objects are subject to a diverse and ever-changing competitive field, where new interpretations of the product are developed on a consistent basis. Ashtrays seem to be an exception to these general dynamics, as there are only a couple of designs prevalent today which are focused on pragmatism and low prices. This encourages a smoking culture of quantity over quality, where the craving is satisfied but the enjoyment is lost.
The ashcube project aims to bring more diversity and beauty to the smoking experience, encouraging a mindful consumerism. This product was not designed to be profitable, but rather to be uniquely handcrafted and curated on a person-to-person basis.
The cubes are mainly composed of concrete mixtures and metal alloys. The full production process can be broken down in three separate steps:
For a fixed connection of the metal plate with the solid concrete, screws are inserted in small holes at each corner of the plate, which are encased in the concrete mixture during the casting process. The liquid mixture additionally includes basalt fibers for further reinforcement and color pigments.
The metal plates are made of either steel, copper or brass, whereas the ashcube lid is always a steel plate due to its magnetic properties. Small magnets are inserted in the cube during its casting, creating a magnetic field that interacts with the steel lid and allows for multiple cubes to be vertically stacked or horizontally linked. The final touches are applied with beewax and a hydrophobic agent for a smooth and water-proof concrete surface.
The easily reproducible production process and the included free parameters allow for the manufacturing of multiple designs in different variants.
Although the ashcubes are treated with a hydrophobic agent, it is encouraged to keep them from rain and weather, mainly to prevent clumping of the ashes. Imperfections like small abrasions, unevenly distributed pigments or residues from bubbles are celebrated rather than eradicated. If you are looking for a flawless and no-care product, the ashcubes are not suited for your needs. However, if simple structures of substantial materials and character do something for you, the cubes might become a companion of an occasional and mindful smoking experience.
